World War II – Just War Theory
A. PorterDecember 8, 1941, President Roosevelt stated, “I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, Dec. 7, 1941, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese Empire.”(1) According to US Constitution, “Congress shall have the power to declare War, grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal, and make Rules concerning Captures on Land and Water” (2) ,war was properly declared once congress approved Roosevelt’s request less than an hour later. “It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago.”(1) This initial advancement by Japan resulted in massive death and military damage, leaving America an indisputable just cause for war. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. (3) “The United States was at peace with that nation, and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its government and its Emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.” (1) Every effort was being made for peace with Japan. America responded to the threat laid before them not as a rash decision but as a way of defense for its people. For he is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer. (4) Declaration of War, December 8, 1941

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